Opening Ceremony of the 2025–2026 Academic Year

DATE

09.10.2025

On October 8th at 4 p.m., the official opening ceremony of the 2025–2026 academic year for the MArch programs was held.

These programs include the Postgraduate in Applied Architecture, the Postgraduate in Industrialized Architecture, the Master’s in Architecture, Design and Innovation, and the Master’s in Architecture, Design and Business Administration.

The event marked the beginning of a new stage for the students joining this year, who come from countries such as Brazil, Argentina, India, the United States, Albania, the Philippines, Mozambique, Iran, Syria, Georgia, Russia, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Libya, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Peru, Portugal, and Spain. It served as the first meeting point for many of them, who were getting to know their classmates for the first time.

Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to explore the spaces where their studies will take place—from classrooms to common areas—as well as to meet the faculty members of each program. This first encounter with a teaching team made up of professionals from diverse disciplines allowed them to begin understanding the academic and creative ecosystem that defines the MArch educational model.

During the opening ceremony, the new students toured Espai Alfaro, a multidisciplinary space where most of the academic program takes place, except for trips and external visits. During this visit, they discovered the Alfaro Hofmann Collection, a carefully curated selection of industrial design pieces—mainly household appliances from different periods—which encouraged reflection on the evolution of the domestic environment and the transformation of kitchen spaces. They also explored the work of sculptor Andreu Alfaro, both his monumental outdoor pieces and the smaller works from his former workshop, thus establishing a tangible link between art and architecture.

In addition, students were introduced to the NIU Houses project, a proposal for industrialized housing designed by Fran Silvestre Arquitectos, noted for its systematic design, precise execution, and minimalist character, all internationally recognized. As part of this experience, they also visited the Fran Silvestre Arquitectos studio, located just above the main classroom where the courses will be held. This first contact with the professional environment that accompanies the MArch program proved essential in inspiring students and preparing them for the challenges they will face throughout the academic year.